Inner City Mission Network of Schools Holds 12th Valedictory Service for complete free education.

The InnerCity Mission Network of Schools, an initiative of LoveWorld Nation founded by Rev. Dr. Chris Oyakhilome, has held its 12th Valedictory Service, celebrating the graduation of 291 pupils from its network of free schools. 

The ceremony for the Ikeja and Shagamu campus at Ikeja, brought together church leaders, parents, teachers, well-wishers, and invited guests to mark another milestone in the organisation’s commitment to providing quality education to children from less privileged backgrounds.

The graduating pupils are part of a wider network of beneficiaries receiving free education through the initiative, and a total of 291 graduates for the 2025/2026 academic session.

The InnerCity Mission Network of Schools which has been in establishment for twelve years, has provided educational opportunities for children whose parents or guardians are unable to afford formal education, particularly within the Christ Embassy community.

The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Pastor Omo Alabi, Executive Director of the Mission and Secretary General of LoveWorld Nation, Mrs. Bamide, Executive Director of The InnerCity Mission Network of Schools, and the Chairman of the occasion, Rev. Tom.

Addressing guests at the ceremony, Mrs. Bamide highlighted the growth and impact of the initiative across the continent. She disclosed that the network currently operates 14 free schools across Africa, with seven additional schools under construction and scheduled to commence operations in September.

According to her, the expansion reflects the organisation’s commitment to extending educational opportunities to more children from disadvantaged communities.

Parents of the graduates when interviewed explained that the school admit children between the ages of five and twelve and provide education completely free of charge. 

It was gathered that while families may have more than one child enrolled, admission is subject to the availability of registered spaces at the time of application.

 The initiative, they noted, continues to offer hope to families who would otherwise struggle to provide their children with access to quality education.

Giving a charge to the graduating pupils, the Chairman of the occasion, Rev. Tom, encouraged them to uphold the values they had been taught throughout their years in school. He reminded them that they had been equipped with the knowledge, character, and skills needed to excel in life and urged them to pursue excellence in every endeavour.

“You have been equipped to be the best in the world,” he told the graduating class while encouraging them to remain focused on their education and personal development.

Rev. Tom also expressed appreciation to the President of LoveWorld Nation, Rev. Dr. Chris Oyakhilome, for his vision and continued investment in providing free education for children from less privileged families. 

He described the initiative as one that continues to transform lives by giving children access to opportunities that would otherwise be beyond their reach.

As part of his remarks, Rev. Tom also announced his intention to sponsor some of the graduating pupils through their secondary school education, a gesture that was warmly received by attendees.

Addressing the graduands, Pastor Tunde delivered a heartfelt charge from the biblical account of David, urging the children to embrace virtues that would guide them as they advance to the next phase of their lives. Using David as a model, he reminded the graduands that greatness begins with character and a heart that is committed to God.

He encouraged the children to be bold, courageous, and audacious, explaining that David did not allow his age or size to limit him. Instead, he trusted God and stepped forward with confidence when others were afraid. Pastor Tunde urged the graduands to develop the same spirit of confidence, encouraging them not to be intimidated by challenges but to face every opportunity with faith and determination.

Drawing further from David’s life, he emphasized that true wisdom comes from the Word of God. He explained that David’s decisions and victories were rooted in his relationship with God and his understanding of His Word. He therefore encouraged the graduands to cultivate a love for reading, studying, and obeying the Word of God, noting that anyone who desires to excel in life must first appreciate and apply God’s wisdom.

The graduands were also charged to become lovers of worship. He pointed out that David was known as a worshipper whose heart continually sought after God. He encouraged the children to make worship a regular part of their lives, reminding them that a heart of worship keeps one close to God and strengthens one’s faith in every season.

Speaking on character, Pastor Tunde highlighted David’s humility despite his achievements and the great position he attained. He warned the graduands against arrogance, explaining that pride has a way of puffing people up and leading them astray, while humility opens the door for God’s lifting and favour. He further explained that humility is demonstrated through the willingness to admit one’s mistakes, accept correction, and learn from one’s shortcomings.

He also encouraged the graduands to become intentional planners. Challenging them to think beyond limitations, he advised them not to settle for small dreams or ambitions but to plan for a future of significance. He urged the children to aspire to live lives of impact, reminding them that every great accomplishment begins with a vision and a purposeful plan.

The charge concluded with prayers offered by Pastor Kayode Adeshina, who committed the graduands into God’s hands. He prayed for divine guidance, protection, wisdom, and grace as they move into a new stage of learning and growth, asking God to help them become children of godly character who will fulfil His purpose for their lives.

The ceremony featured colourful presentations by the pupils, alongside award presentations recognising outstanding academic achievement, leadership qualities, good conduct, and excellence in other areas. 

Family members and teachers celebrates with the graduates as they received certificates marking the successful completion of their primary education.